Dear {{first_name}}, We want everyone to be aware of an incident at the Temple earlier this afternoon. There was an act of vandalism - someone stopped their car on Craig Road and slashed one of the "Our Hearts Are With Israel" banners out front. A passerby stopped his car and the person got back in his car. The passerby, who works at a nearby business, chased the car and he was able to get the person's license plate and report it to the Manalapan Police Department.
While we all wish that the incident did not happen; we are heartened that the system we have in place worked as it should. Our security guard had just finished a patrol of the property five minutes before the incident. There was never a risk to anybody at the property. Police responded immediately and the witness gave the police all necessary information. The witness also reported the incident to us and came back to the Temple to make sure we had all the necessary information.
The Police reported the incident to other local police departments and we let other synagogues know about what happened. We also reported this to the Jewish Federation Heart NJ, so that other synagogues in Middlesex and Monmouth counties, as well as the Secure Communities Network, County Prosecuter, and FBI. This will assure that law enforcement could look for patterns.
So you are aware - the man was driving a black car with the license plate M19 SKJ, and was wearing a hoodie. If you happen to see someone who may fit this description, please call the police: but, please do not confront the individual.
This is a reminder to be aware of your surrounding and practice the saying, "If you see something, say something." In addition to our armed security on sight, the Manalapan Police Department is going to increase patrols in the area.
Shabbat Shalom!
P.S. We hope that you can join with us at the Camp Kabbalat Shabbat tonight, and the Chanukah Family Service next week.
Also, if you can, please attend our Pasta Dinner for Israel, anytime from 5PM to 7PM, next Wednesday.
